Hey guys, im doing a few replacements on the monte ever since i hit 100k a few weeks ago and on my list includes the catalytic converter. Ive been doing some research and have narrowed my brands down to either magnaflow or cherry bomb. I have a 2006 2LT 3.5... i was hoping on a direct fit but im having some troubles finding one from these brands.
Im looking for something that will obviously do what it needs to do in replacing an old cat and i would love some increased power, MPGs and sound.

Are universal cats better or worse then direct fit?
Any suggestions on a better brand for my preferences?
Wheres the best place to look?
Does direct fit mean it can be simply bolted on or is there a possibility of welding involved?

I dont know how to weld nor do i know anyone who does, how much would labor cost to have an exhaust shop install a cat that requires welding?

Thanks everyone!!

 

I recently had a new downpipe w/Magnaflow Cat from ZZ Performance installed. Check w/ZZP for your specific year/model. They probably have a direct bolt-in replacement. Their downpipe eliminates the sharp 'U-bend' in the stock downpipe that robs a few HP. Very happy with the results.

Mine was bolt-in; no welding required. A shop did it for $35. (Easy do-it-yourself job, but I couldn't break loose two of the bolts.) If you need a shop to weld-in a new Cat, still shouldn't be too expensive; somewhere in the $50-$100 range.

 

Thanks for the info!!

 

I don't think ZZP does anything for the 3.5L engines.

They also don't have to worry about the U-Bend that we had.